Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in South Dakota
The median substance abuse counselor salary in South Dakota is $43,745 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,745 per year, substance abuse counselors in South Dakota earn $5,965 less than the national median of $49,710.
A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $43,745 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,710 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $26,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,160 — a $45,760 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $45,733.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Dakota and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in South Dakota by Experience
In South Dakota, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $29,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $43,745? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in South Dakota
| Percentile | SD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,440 |
| Median (50th) | $43,745 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $72,160 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in South Dakota
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in South Dakota
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Dakota
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 338,100 other Substance Abuse Counselors.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Substance Abuse Counselor Roles in South Dakota?
Get matched with recruiters hiring substance abuse counselors in South Dakota at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: